The Comox Seniors’ Centre, located at 1801 Beaufort Ave in Comox, offers a wide range of opportunities to socialize, be physically fit, and stay mindfully active. The Centre has an on-site meal service and more than 40 club activities ranging from Yoga, Carpet Bowling, Table Tennis, Line Dancing, Mah Jong, Bridge, Spanish Conversation, etc. For many seniors this Centre is their second home. For more information, drop in or call 250-339-5133 or visit our website ComoxSeniors.ca Comox Seniors’ Centre.
Community News
Suffering from Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. Gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth. Some warning signs that can signal a problem include gums that bleed easily; red, swollen, and tender gums; receding gumline; and persistent bad breath. See your dentist if you suspect you have gum disease because the sooner you treat it the better.
Donations Gratefully Accepted
Comox Valley Senior Support receives roughly ⅓ of its funding from Island Health and ⅓ from the United Way of the Lower Mainland. The remaining funds are all raised by grants and donations. Though the Society charges no fees for any of its supports, programs each cost money to operate. Your donations can go a long way at Comox Valley Senior Support, and we will happily direct donations to where you would like. There is a donation link on our website https://comoxvalleyseniorsupport.ca/donate/ or cheques can be mailed to us at C1-450 8th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1N5. If you would like to talk to staff about donating, or where you would like your donation directed, please call Chris at 250-871-4950 or email at [email protected]
Comox Valley Senior Support is a federally registered charity: 89587 9849 RR0001
Help Us – Help Others
The vital component of most of our programs at CV Senior Support are volunteers! While staff coordinate the pieces to make programs work, it is our incredible volunteers who venture into the community and provide the supports many of our clients depend upon. Volunteering at Comox Valley Senior Support can range from a weekly phone call or in person visit to grocery shopping or assisting seniors fill out forms and find resources. Volunteers are provided with training and support and opportunities for ongoing education. Please contact our office for more information at 250-871-5940 or email [email protected]
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
According to a recent survey, 90% of North American homeowners between the ages of 55 and 75 would like to stay in their long-time home as they get older. And, not surprisingly, 66% of seniors believe their home is where they will be most comfortable, with 53% believing they will stay healthier in their own home. But living out that scenario and remaining in the driver’s seat calls for a plan of action – and an understanding of potential safety risks in the home. Home care makes it possible to remain home despite physical challenges. From respite care to 24-hour in-home care, services can be tailored to meet your needs.
Managing Multiple Medications
If you take multiple medications, your pharmacist offers solutions that can help you manage them.*Synchronized refill dates – Adjusting quantities of medications to coordinate refill dates so all can be refilled at one time. *Blister packaging to arrange your medications in a weekly or monthly schedule. *Pre-authorized refills – Receive notifications when it is time to renew your medication. *Extension of expired refills – Your pharmacist may be able to renew your prescription if it expires before you can see your doctor. For more information about our pharmacy services, visit medicineshoppecourtenay.ca.
Seniors and Social Isolation
Social isolation is far too common among seniors and can have a negative impact on mental health and cognition. Here are 3 ways you can enjoy social interactions while protecting your health, especially if you live in a retirement community: 1. Sign up for clubs and activities. There are plenty of daily options to keep you mentally sharp or help maintain your physical fitness. 2. Join in on the bus excursions to get out into the community, either for a meal or exploring one the beautiful parks in the Comox Valley. 3. Use technology such as Zoom, Facetime or Skype to video chat with your loved ones.
What is an AFA Chemical Peel?
“AFA” is Amino acid Filaggrin based Antioxidants. Filaggrin is a protein in your skin. It is a natural moisturizer, containing amino acids capable of increasing the water-holding capacity of the skin. AFA peeling utilizes these valuable amino acids to promote healthier and brighter skin. AFA’s can benefit all skin types and are an ideal peel option for people with sensitive skin as well as those who suffer from rosacea, as there is little to no “down time” with AFA peeling. Other benefits include greater moisture retention, anti-aging benefits, reduction of hyper-pigmentation, deep exfoliation and less irritation than other chemical peels.
The Magic Solution
You know the feeling, you’ve tried it all: the anti-inflammatory diet, mindfulness, aerobics, probiotics, prebiotics, hiking, swimming in the ocean, self-help, TM, Atkins, Keto, injections, even contemplated more invasive treatments. Some worked short term, some not at all. Frustrating, your health and wellness still isn’t what you want. The perfect solution isn’t one thing, it’s a lifestyle, the daily/weekly practice of habits that are the perfect combination for you! Like the combination for a padlock, knowing and practicing your combination is key to “Owning YOU!”. Curious about your combination? Book a clarity call with Denise Ropp, White Cedar Integrated Wellness Inc.
The Power Within You
‘Taking control of your health’ means reminding ourselves of our innate ability to heal and feel. You are powerful, with many defensive mechanisms allowing you to push through negative sensations, thoughts, and feelings. Sometimes, we fail to recognize our own power, with a veil of comfort shielding us from that which would cause us distress and harm. It becomes crucial to ‘tune-in’ and build awareness of Body, Mind, and Breath – remembering what our personal ‘normals’ feel like. In doing so, you are able to sense changed states, sensations and qualities. Connecting with your deeper awareness allows you to take action early and move towards wellness.
Exercise Helps Depression, Anxiety & Stress
During these times we must take care of our emotional health. Strength training provides similar improvements in depression as anti-depressant medications. Currently, it is not known if this is because people feel better when they are stronger or if strength training produces a helpful biochemical change to the brain. It is most likely a combination of the two. Strength training helps to ease stress and anxiety by reducing stress, it helps sharpen brain-power and increasing self-esteem. Lifting your mood can help relieve depression, boost your energy level helping you cope better with whatever comes your way in the run of a day.
